Rawalpindi to Launch First Phase of Electric Bus Service Next Week

Rawalpindi is gearing up to introduce a landmark eco-friendly public transportation initiative with the launch of its first-ever electric bus service next week. The project is expected to be inaugurated by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, marking another major step toward sustainable and modern urban mobility in the region. According to district administration officials, the initial deployment will cover 10 strategically planned routes throughout the garrison city, improving commuter convenience, reducing traffic congestion, and promoting environmentally responsible travel.

A senior administration representative confirmed that a total of 80 electric buses have been allocated for Rawalpindi’s new transport network. Of these, 45 buses delivered last month are fully prepared for immediate operations in the launch phase. The remaining 35 buses will be added by the end of December, following the completion of a permanent charging station on Peshawar Road. Until then, a temporary charging setup has been installed at the old GTS bus stand on Adamjee Road to ensure continuous operation.

The inauguration was initially planned for October 15, but the ceremony was postponed due to the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan protest in Islamabad, which affected security and administrative arrangements. Currently, the buses are parked at GTS bus stand and the Metro Bus Command and Control Centre on Haider Road, while preparations are underway to finalize logistics before launch.

Route planning, recruitment, and staffing procedures have been successfully completed. RTA Secretary Asad Shirazi confirmed that driver training has concluded, ensuring operational readiness and service quality. However, due to the ongoing construction at Kutchery Chowk, the electric buses will temporarily bypass the stop and use alternate routes until redevelopment work is finished.

The introduction of the Rawalpindi electric bus service is seen as a transformative milestone for public transportation in Punjab, supporting reduced carbon emissions, improved commuter accessibility, and modernized city transit standards.

Afsheen Gohar

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